JIT Summons PTI’s Jibran Ilyas in Anti-State Social Media Campaign Investigation

The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) investigating a controversial anti-state social media campaign has summoned Jibran Ilyas, a prominent member of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its social media lead. The JIT, chaired by IG Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, has already included eight individuals in its investigation, highlighting the growing scrutiny of social media activities linked to political unrest.

Jibran Ilyas: Background and Role

Jibran Ilyas, a cybersecurity expert, has an impressive academic and professional background. After moving to Chicago in his teens, he has worked on data breaches for Google and teaches digital forensics at Northwestern University. His involvement with PTI began in 2011, and he rose to prominence as the party’s social media lead in 2022, overseeing its digital strategy from abroad.

Ilyas is believed to be a key figure in orchestrating a harmful campaign against state institutions, leveraging his expertise to influence public sentiment. Sources indicate that he has been collaborating with both internal and external elements to spread unrest and foster discontent among the populace.

Investigation Insights

The JIT has reportedly uncovered substantial evidence implicating Ilyas and his associates in activities aimed at undermining state stability. Further evidence is being gathered to substantiate these claims. The investigation underscores the growing concern among authorities regarding the role of social media in exacerbating political tensions and spreading misinformation.

X Access Restrictions

In a related development, access to X (formerly Twitter) has been severely restricted in Pakistan since February 17, 2024. The Ministry of Interior (MoI) cited national security concerns and X’s non-compliance with requests for the removal of unlawful content as reasons for this measure. The ongoing limitations on the platform have raised alarms about freedom of expression and the implications for political discourse in the country.

Conclusion

The investigation into Jibran Ilyas and the broader anti-state campaign reflects the Pakistani government’s increasing vigilance over social media’s role in political mobilization and unrest. As the JIT continues its work, the outcomes of this inquiry could have significant implications for both PTI and the wider political landscape in Pakistan.

More: https://jininews.pk/2024/09/28/pakistans-gender-digital-divide-bridging-the-gap/